Subjunctive Verb

Verb Mood—The Subjunctive

By Alejandra Rivera

Subjunctive

​Speakers and writers convey their attitudes toward the actions expressed by verbs by using different moods. The indicative mood is used for statements of fact. By contrast, the subjunctive mood expresses one of the following:

• a wish or desire

• a condition that is highly unlikely or contrary to fact

• a request or demand for action

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

Subjunctive verbs

​

Subjunctive verbs are often found in clauses that begin with if, as if, as

though, or that. This chart shows situations in which a speaker or writer

would use the subjunctive mood.

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

Subjunctive verbs errors

Avoid using the incorrect verb form to express the subjunctive mood,

especially for third-person singular verbs and all forms of the verb be.

Incorrect: Blake speaks as if he was in charge.

Correct: Blake speaks as if he were in charge.

Incorrect: Julia’s mother requires that she gets home before dinner.

Correct: Julia’s mother requires that she get home before dinner.​

​

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

Assignment

​In Silent Spring, Rachel Carson paints a harsh picture of the future.

Write an argument in which you answer this question: Does Carson’s

description inspire readers to take action, or does it discourage action because the problem seems so big?

First, decide on your position. Then, review the selection to find

specific details that support your position.

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

As you draft, be sure to do the following:

• State your position clearly in the introduction.

• In the body of your argument, support your position with reasons

and evidence, including specific details from Silent Spring.

• Address alternate, or opposing, positions, and respond with counterarguments that address these views.

• Use transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas and show the relationships among them.

• Establish and maintain a formal style.

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion

This essay will be handwritten in your notebook.

The essay must be at least 4-5 paragraphs. 

Make sure to include an introduction, body and conclusion paragraph.​

Subject | Subject

Some text here about the topic of discussion